It's funny how we realize our age when discussing certain topics. From a first kiss, to a first time behind the wheel. A recent conversation prompted me to think back to my first time on a motorcycle. After a brief moment of mental math, I realized it's been nineteen years since I first squeezed the clutch on a motorcycle.

My latest "ride". A 1999 Yamaha R1.

Here I am fourteen street bikes and two dirt bikes later. My latest is a 1999 Yamaha R1 which I have spoken of before (2-Wheel Solution). The reason for this reminiscing is due to a friends interest in riding. Like many, he wants to take up a new hobby and enjoy the option of great gas mileage at the same time.

Now is as good a time as any to take up two-wheels. Although riding is possible year round in California, this is still the "off-season". This means a motorcycle can easily be found at a great price. A quick search online and you will find a plethora of bikes at excellent deals. Some are looking for cash in tough times, while others sell due to lost interest.

A CMSP class. They furbish the motorcycles to learn on as well.

It's evident that there is a new generation of motorcycle riders in the works. A recent search for open classes with CMSP (California Motorcycle Safety program) showed booked classes in Ventura county through March. While it only takes the written test at DMV to get a permit, I highly recommend the CMSP class to all first time riders. Note; with a permit you can only ride during daylight hours and no freeway riding or with a passenger.

Feel free to contact me with any queries you may have in reference to riding. Having worked at motorcycle shops for years, and owning a fair share, I can assist you in most concerns or questions you may have.

Ride on,

Lance

Helpful links:

DMV info. on obtaining a motorcycle license

California motorcycle handbook

CMSP homepage

Greetings,

I hope everyone had a wonderful time ringing in the new year. Something that may have slipped in under radar for most was the no text law that went into effect January 1st. I think this was an excellent to accompany the hands-free law last July. One problem I find is people ignoring these laws which promote safe driving.

Not a day has gone by that I haven't seen a person with phone to ear while driving. Even worse are those that put the phone on speaker then hold it away from their ear thinking this avoids the law. It's called "hands-free" for a reason people! To break it down for the slower folks; this means your hands are completely free of the cell phone.

Another interesting, if not provocative way to avoid the law I've seen is the chest phone. Yes you heard me right! More commonly seen being practiced by younger females, I have looked over to see a young lady with the cell phone propped on her chest. Clever? Yes. Wise? No. That cell phone can very easily become a projectile in a panic stop.

If something is so urgent that you need to speak to someone while driving, pull over. From directions to digits, it's much easier to get that important information on the line.

Happy Motoring,

Lance